Kicking Rebel slapped with ban

NEWS: Melbourne Rebels lock Lopeti Timani has been suspended for four matches for kicking an opponent.

Timani was initially charged with having contravened Law 10.4(c): Kicking an opponent - Rory Arnold of the Brumbies.

The incident happened in the Rebels' 19-17 during Super Rugby win over the Brumbies in Melbourne at the weekend.

Timani was given a yellow card by New Zealand referee Glen Jackson for the incident in the 26th minute.

His leg appeared to make contact with Arnold's head while he was on the ground.

Upon further review, the SANZAAR citing commissioner said the incident met the red card threshold for foul play.

Timani pleaded guilty to the charge and has been suspended from all forms of the game up to and including May 13.

"Having conducted a detailed review of all the available evidence, including all camera angles and additional evidence, including from the player and submissions from his legal representative, Michele Williams, the foul play review committee amended the citing to Law 10.4(m): Any other acts [not previously referred t]) which are contrary to good sportsmanship," foul play review committee Chairman Nigel Hampton said.

"With respect to sanction the foul play review committee deemed the act of foul play, which involved an intentional, but glancing, strike to an opponent's head by the Player's leg, merited a mid range entry point of eight weeks.

"However, taking into account mitigating factors including the player's excellent judicial record, his on-field apology to the opposing player, his remorse and his early guilty plea, the foul play review committee reduced the suspension to four weeks.

"The player is therefore suspended for four weeks, up to and including Saturday, May 13.”